Introduction
Every year, thousands of students in Nigeria write the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). While some students score very high, many others fall below the cut-off mark they hoped for. If you are one of those who got a low JAMB score, don’t panic — you are not alone. The good news is that there are Nigerian universities that still offer admission even with a low JAMB score.
This guide will give you a step-by-step explanation of how low JAMB scores work, list the universities that accept them, explain the pros and cons, and show you how to maximize your chances of gaining admission in 2025/2026.
By the end of this article, you will have a clear picture of your options, so you can confidently move forward without giving up your dream of becoming a university student.
What Is Considered a Low JAMB Score?
A low JAMB score is any UTME result that is below the general cut-off mark of 180–200, depending on the university and the course.
- For top courses like Medicine, Law, Pharmacy, and Engineering, anything below 220 is considered low.
- For regular courses, some schools accept as low as 140–160.
- JAMB’s official minimum cut-off in recent years is 140 for universities, 120 for polytechnics, and 100 for colleges of education.
This means if you scored 140–170, you still have a chance to gain admission in many Nigerian universities.
Why Some Universities Accept Low JAMB Scores
Not all schools set very high cut-offs. Here’s why some universities accept lower JAMB scores:
- High Carrying Capacity: Some schools have space for more students and want to fill it.
- Private and State Universities: These schools are usually more flexible because they want to attract more applicants.
- Less Competitive Courses: Departments like Agricultural Science, Education, and Languages often have lower cut-offs.
- Location: Some universities in less crowded states lower their requirements to attract more students.
Step-by-Step Guide to Admission with a Low JAMB Score
If you scored low, here’s what to do:
Step 1: Don’t Panic
A low score is not the end of the road. Many universities and polytechnics will still consider you.
Step 2: Check JAMB Cut-off Marks
JAMB usually releases cut-off marks for universities, polytechnics, and colleges. Compare your score with these.
Step 3: Consider Universities That Accept Low Scores
Look for schools that accept scores between 140–170. (See list below).
Step 4: Apply for a Change of Institution/Course
Through JAMB CAPS, you can change your school to one that accepts your score.
Step 5: Prepare for Post-UTME or Screening
Even with a low score, if you do well in the post-UTME, your chances increase.
Step 6: Explore Supplementary Admission
Many schools release supplementary lists for students who didn’t get admission initially.
Step 7: Consider Private or State Universities
These schools are less strict and give more opportunities to low scorers.
List of Nigerian Universities That Accept Low JAMB Scores
Here are some Nigerian universities known for accepting low JAMB scores in 2025/2026:
Federal Universities That Accept Low JAMB Scores
- University of Calabar (UNICAL) – often accepts candidates with 150–160 for some courses.
- Federal University Dutse (FUDutse) – cut-off can be as low as 160.
- University of Jos (UNIJOS) – some education and agricultural courses accept 160–170.
- Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE) – flexible cut-off for non-competitive courses.
- Federal University Gusau (FUGUS) – accepts 140–160 for some programmes.
State Universities That Accept Low JAMB Scores
- Lagos State University (LASU) – accepts 160+ for certain courses.
- Rivers State University (RSU) – some programmes have lower requirements.
- Ekiti State University (EKSU) – education courses accept 150–160.
- Abia State University (ABSU) – flexible admission policy.
- Benue State University (BSU) – accepts 150+ for many programmes.
Private Universities That Accept Low JAMB Scores
- Covenant University (though private, admission is more about screening).
- Babcock University – accepts low JAMB scores with good O’level results.
- Madonna University – flexible cut-off marks.
- Igbinedion University – accepts low scores for many courses.
- Bowen University – easier admission with strong O’level results.
Courses That Usually Accept Low JAMB Scores
Some courses are naturally less competitive, so they accept lower JAMB scores:
- Education Courses (Education Biology, Education Chemistry, etc.)
- Agricultural Sciences
- Forestry and Fisheries
- History and International Studies
- Religious Studies
- Languages (Igbo, Yoruba, French, etc.)
- Library and Information Science
- Adult Education
If you scored low, switching to one of these courses may give you a higher chance of admission.
Advantages of Admission with a Low JAMB Score
- Second Chance at Education – You don’t have to waste another year.
- Less Competition – Fewer students apply for some courses.
- Opportunity to Upgrade – You can start in a less competitive course and later switch.
- Flexible Requirements – Private and state universities are usually accommodating.
Disadvantages of Admission with a Low JAMB Score
- Limited Course Options – Top courses like Medicine or Law are rarely available.
- Possibility of Higher School Fees – Some private or state universities charge more.
- Location Issues – Many schools that accept low scores are in less popular areas.
- Stigma – Some people believe only “low scorers” attend such schools (though this isn’t true).
Smart Tips to Increase Your Chances of Admission
- Do Well in Post-UTME/Screening – It can balance your low JAMB score.
- Choose Less Competitive Courses – This increases your admission chance.
- Apply Early for Change of Institution – Don’t wait too long.
- Use Your O’level Results – Good WAEC/NECO grades can compensate.
- Consider Direct Entry or JUPEB – These options bypass JAMB.
Comparison: Low JAMB Score Universities vs High JAMB Score Universities
| Feature | Low JAMB Score Universities | High JAMB Score Universities |
|---|---|---|
| Cut-off | 140–170 | 200+ |
| Admission Speed | Faster in some cases | Slower, very competitive |
| Course Options | Limited (mostly education, arts) | Wider (Medicine, Law, Engineering) |
| School Fees | Often higher in private schools | Lower in federal universities |
| Competition | Low to moderate | Very high |
Summary Table: Nigerian Universities That Accept Low JAMB Scores
| Category | Universities | Cut-off Range |
|---|---|---|
| Federal | UNICAL, UNIJOS, FUOYE, FUGUS, FUDutse | 150–170 |
| State | LASU, RSU, EKSU, ABSU, BSU | 150–160 |
| Private | Babcock, Madonna, Bowen, Igbinedion, Covenant | Flexible (depends on screening) |
Conclusion
A low JAMB score should not stop you from achieving your dreams. Many Nigerian universities accept students with scores between 140–170, especially for less competitive courses. Whether you choose a federal, state, or private university, the key is to explore your options, act fast, and make smart choices.
Remember: education is not about where you start but where you finish. Use the opportunities available, work hard, and you can still graduate successfully from any Nigerian university.
